13 Photos That Will Make You Want to Visit Rome

Rome captivates travelers in ways few cities can. Chalk it up to world-class architecture, endless plates of pasta, and museums filled with artistic masterpieces. In honor of the city's 2,771st birthday on April 21 (it was founded on that date back in 753 B.C.), take a virtual tour of some of the capital's most beautiful sites. Keep it up, Rome—you hardly look a day over 2,770.

Getty

Trastevere

Located near the west bank of the Tiber, Trastevere is one of Rome's trendiest and most charming neighborhoods. Its narrow streets are dotted with new bars and boutiques, while the beautiful old churches and ochre-colored houses are as quintessentially Roman as it gets.

Getty

The Colosseum

No matter how many times you visit Rome, that first glimpse of the Colosseum will stop you dead in your tracks. And now with a newly-restored top floor open up to the public, there's really no excuse to skip this iconic landmark.

Getty

Aventine Hill

Aventine Hill is a delightfully serene spot in an otherwise bustling city, known for its religious structures, orange garden (Giardino degli Aranci, pictured), and views of St. Peter's Basilica. And its not-too-central location (it's about a mile southwest of the Colosseum) means you can enjoy the sites relatively crowd-free.

Getty

Campo de'Fiori

There's really no wrong time to visit Campo de'Fiori, a lovely piazza found in the Parione district. By day, the square serves as a produce and flower market; by evening, it transforms into a happening nightspot filled with bars and cafes. Pro tip: Head to Forno Campo de'Fiori for some seriously epic pizza by the slice.

Getty

St. Peter's Basilica

St. Peter's Basilica draws a whopping 25,000 visitors every day—and it's easy to see why. The exquisite church's gilded roof, world-renowned artwork, and cupola views are enough to make you feel #blessed long after your visit ends.

Getty

Villa Doria Pamphilj

Villa Doria Pamphilj is not only Rome's largest public park—it's also one of the most beautiful. The 450-acre space is perfect for leisurely strolls, romantic picnics, or simply gawking at the on-site 17th-century palace.

Getty

Galleria Borghese

Galleria Borghese, the former home of the aristocratic Borghese family, should rank among the Vatican and Roman Forum on any art-slash-history lover's bucket list. The villa houses an impressive collection of Renaissance and Baroque artwork (including some by Titian, Rafael, and Caravaggio), with mosaics on the floors and frescoes adorning the ceilings.

Getty

Coffee (Standing Up)

When in Rome, drink as the Romans do. That means heading to a traditional Italian bar, ordering a cappuccino before noon, and sipping it standing up—and whatever you do, do not drink your coffee from a paper cup.

Getty

The Trevi Fountain

Fresh off a $2.4 million restoration courtesy of Fendi, the Trevi Fountain (probably the most famous fountain in the world) is more dazzling now than ever. Sure, you have to fight through lots of crowds, but it's worth the effort to get an up-close view of this Baroque masterpiece.

Getty

Piazza di Campidoglio

The Michelangelo-designed Piazza di Campidoglio is easily one of Rome's most beautiful public squares, surrounded by elegant palazzi and a cool oval-shaped pattern underfoot. Time your visit with the sunset if you can swing it.

Getty

The Vatican Museums

Visiting the Vatican Museums feels like strolling through a walled medieval city, with some 20,000 pieces lining the walls, corridors, and ceilings. Highlights include the Sistine Chapel, Gallery of Maps, papal throne, and Raphael Rooms. Even the Giuseppe Momo-designed double spiral staircase is a masterpiece.

Getty

Carbs Galore

If you visit Rome and don't fill up on pasta dishes, did you really even visit? The city is home to thousands of restaurants serving up carbs galore, with staples like cacio e pepe and carbonara topping our list.

Getty

Sant'Ivo alla Sapienza

Architecture lovers should head directly to Sant'Ivo alla Sapienza, a magnificent church designed by Borromini for the Università di Roma. With its curved facade, sprawling dome, and sunlit courtyard, "divine" doesn't even begin to cover this Baroque marvel.